Recent leaks suggest that the Asus ROG Xbox Ally will start at around €599 ($699), with the high-end ROG Xbox Ally X expected to cost approximately €899 ($1,050), positioning them as premium gaming handhelds.

Both devices will feature AMD's latest Z2 processors, aiming to deliver better performance than competitors like the Steam Deck, and are expected to launch in October 2025.

Many users have reacted negatively, labeling the devices 'dead on arrival' due to their high prices, which could deter potential buyers.

Concerns are raised that if the base model costs around $600, it might not fulfill its promise of accessible handheld gaming, especially given the competitive landscape.

While the devices promise a sleek, quiet, and long-lasting gaming experience, the high cost threatens to overshadow these features, making it hard for most gamers to justify a purchase.

This leak comes at a challenging time for Microsoft and Asus, who hoped to compete with the Steam Deck but now face criticism over their pricing strategies, with Asus having months to adjust before launch.

It's important to note that these prices are not officially confirmed and may be placeholders or errors from Google’s listings, so caution is advised.

Despite improvements in ergonomics, battery life, and a focus on creating a console-like experience, the high price has sparked criticism and skepticism about their market success.

The leak was first reported by Insider Gaming, based on alleged store listings, raising questions about the affordability of the devices compared to the Steam Deck.

The gaming community's response has been largely negative, with many expressing shock or dismissing the high prices as too steep for a handheld device.

International pricing could be even more alarming, with estimates suggesting the premium model might exceed $1500 CAD in Canada and reach around $1800 AUD in Australia.

Although benchmarks are not yet available, the focus is on making these devices feel truly console-like, with features like a 7-inch 1080p/120Hz display, VRR support, and a customized Windows 11 interface.